A revealing contractual detail in Lewis Hamilton's transition from Mercedes to Ferrari could shed light on the seven-time world champion's ongoing difficulties, as some insiders speculate that his faltering performance might prompt a mid-season retirement.
Italian F1 technical journalist Paolo Filisetti, writing in La Gazzetta dello Sport, noted a stark contrast between Hamilton's progressive struggles and the growing confidence of his Ferrari teammate, Charles Leclerc.
"His (Leclerc's) statements at the end of the race highlighted how his driving with the SF-25 was now becoming automatic, allowing him to extract the maximum potential from the car," Filisetti observed.
Meanwhile, former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher described Hamilton's plight, stating, "Lewis seems desperate and confused, both in what he says and in his body language."
Filisetti suggested that Ferrari faces a critical decision, potentially shifting development focus from aiding Hamilton's acclimatisation to tailoring the 2025 car to Leclerc's strengths.
Adding to the complexity, Corriere dello Sport reported a significant contractual clause that may be hampering Hamilton's adaptation to Ferrari's Maranello-built car. "A clause inserted in the agreement prevents Ferrari from contacting anyone at Mercedes about going to Ferrari," the newspaper claimed.
"Lewis Hamilton has therefore been totally isolated from the German team, leaving him to interface only with unfamiliar engineers without the possibility of help from old acquaintances."
Valtteri Bottas, Hamilton's former Mercedes teammate and current reserve driver for the team, offered perspective on the challenges of Hamilton's move, speaking to Italian outlet automoto.it. "It is clearly a big change, after a long experience like his with Mercedes, working with the same people," Bottas said.
"At Ferrari it is a totally different culture—an Italian one—compared to the Anglo-German one at Mercedes."
Drawing from his own experience transitioning from Mercedes to the Ferrari-powered Sauber (then Alfa Romeo) team, Bottas downplayed the technical challenges Hamilton has cited, such as braking and engine differences. "It wasn't that difficult," he said.
"I don't think the differences are that big, apart from something minor regarding driveability. The most complicated part is the basics, since even the names for things are different. But after that it can be managed without too much difficulty."
Bottas also minimised the impact of driving style adjustments. "Minimal," he said, "especially in terms of gear changes and engine braking. But everything is adjustable, and you can find a solution that makes you feel comfortable."
Lending credence to the contract clause theory, the 35-year-old Finn emphasised the human element of team transitions. "The most difficult thing about changing teams is working with different people," he said.
"Ultimately, this sport is about human performance—teamwork. You really have to understand the people you work with. How to give your best and get the same out of them."
